GEORGE TOWN – Penang and Kazakhstan are expanding their cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism, with strong support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Penang.
Penang’s State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, emphasized the growing relationship between the two regions, marked by the establishment of the Honorary Consulate of Kazakhstan in Penang in October 2023. “This reflects a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties,” he said.
“Penang is proud of its rich cultural heritage and growing prominence as a business and tourism hub,” Wong said in his keynote at the Kazakhstan-Malaysia Business Forum held in George Town. “Our modern infrastructure, strategic location, and sustainability efforts make us an ideal partner for Kazakhstan across various industries including technology, tourism, and trade.”
Wong added that with direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Almaty, and convenient access to Penang, the state is well-positioned to welcome more investors and tourists from Kazakhstan.
“Both Penang and Kazakhstan share a strong commitment to economic development, cultural exchange, and sustainability,” he said. “Kazakhstan’s rapid growth in sectors like energy, agriculture, and technology complements Penang’s strengths in manufacturing, digital economy, and tourism.”
The forum, titled “Discover the Heart of Eurasia”, was hosted by the Honorary Consulate of Kazakhstan in Penang and supported by the Embassy of Kazakhstan to Malaysia. It brought together key stakeholders from both countries to explore business opportunities in sectors such as development, mining, education, manufacturing, and tourism.
Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau, in his role as Honorary Consul, played a key part in facilitating the event and strengthening bilateral engagement.
“Malaysian investors have a unique opportunity to tap into Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing sectors, from mining and technology to tourism and education,” he said. “Kazakhstan’s vast mineral resources and pro-investment policies make it an attractive destination for business expansion.”
He also emphasized Kazakhstan’s immense mineral wealth, including reserves of gold, iron ore, and rare earth metals—offering strong synergy with Malaysia’s gold and jewellery industry. Kazakhstan also ranks among the world’s top producers of uranium, chromium, zinc, lead, and copper.
Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Bulat Sugurbayev, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the post-pandemic recovery in trade and the introduction of new investment opportunities for Malaysian businesses.
“With our strategic location and investor-friendly climate, Kazakhstan is ready to welcome more Malaysian partnerships that will drive high returns and sustainable growth,” said the Ambassador.
Other references:
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
- Penang and Kazakhstan Deepen Economic Ties with Support from Dato Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau
